Colorado Rockies co-owner Charlie Monfort arrested for DUI

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Colorado Rockies co-owner Charlie Monfort was arrested Monday in Windsor for investigation of driving under the influence of alcohol.

Monfort — a Greeley native whose father, Kenny, was known internationally as a pioneer in the cattle-feeding and beef industries — also was cited for driving 10-19 mph over the speed limit, according to court records.

Monfort, 54, was arrested just before 10 p.m. Monday and booked into Weld County Jail just after midnight. He was released Tuesday afternoon on a personal recognizance bond, essentially giving his word to return to court for his Nov. 19 arraignment to face the misdemeanor charge.

Windsor police officials were unavailable late Tuesday for further details about his arrest.

The Colorado Rockies released a written statement from Monfort on Tuesday night.

“I’m extremely disappointed in myself for the decision I made to drink and drive and the potential risk I caused to other innocent people,” the statement read. “I want to apologize to my family, the Colorado Rockies staff, players, Major League Baseball and of course, our fans for the embarrassment I have caused by my actions. I do understand the seriousness of my behavior and the issues that I am facing and I’m committed to do what’s necessary to deal with my problem.”

The Rockies also released a statement from co-owner, chairman and CEO Dick Monfort regarding his brother’s arrest.

“I am extremely saddened and very disappointed to learn of my brother Charlie’s arrest (Monday) night in Windsor, Colorado on DUI charges,” the statement read. “We all understand the seriousness of this offense and the potential consequences involved when the decision to drink and drive is made. I am thankful that no one was injured.

“As troubling and intolerable as these actions are, I can tell you that I’m focused on helping Charlie get the resources he needs to overcome this problem.”

This isn’t Charlie Monfort’s first brush with the law.

He was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence June 23, 1999, after leaving Old Chicago, 2349 19th St. in Greeley. He registered a .209 blood alcohol level, which at the time was more than twice the state’s limit.

BAC limits have since been reduced to .08 percent. There is no word about the level of alcohol found in Monfort’s blood during his arrest Monday.

Monfort initially took his 1999 case to trial, at one point claiming that the arresting police officer spoke to him at the restaurant and waited for him outside trying to trap him Monfort.

At a motions hearing prior to trial, Monfort’s attorney claimed Monfort suffered from acid reflux disease and his heartburn caused him to fail a breath test. A month later, in May, he pleaded guilty to driving while ability impaired. He was sentenced to 18 months probation.